Student Visa to Study in Australia

Australia Student Visa Guide

After receiving an acceptance letter from an Australian university, you can proceed to apply for an Australian Study Visa (subclass 500).

This visa is designed for international students who intend to pursue academic, research, or vocational studies at a recognised learning institution in Australia. To ensure a smooth application process and stay up-to-date with immigration rules and regulations, it is advisable to seek assistance from professional consultants.

Australian Student Visa Eligibility

As of March 2025, an Australian Study Visa (subclass 500) costs approximately 1,600 AUD. Processing fees can be paid online or offline using cards or demand drafts. To be eligible for a Student Visa, the following criteria must be met:

• Acceptance by an Australian university or college
• Clean background with no criminal record
• Certification of good health
• Genuine Student (GS) compliance (see below)
• Sufficient funds to cover study, living expenses, and self-support (see details below)
• Proof of English language proficiency (see details below)

Required Student Visa Documents

Requirements for International Student Visa Application:

• Offer Letter: Once you have been accepted into your desired educational institution, you will receive a Letter of Offer, detailing course specifics, terms, and fees.

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): As of January 1, 2025, all Student Visa applicants must provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application.
  

• Academic Documents: Applicants must submit certified copies of degrees, diplomas, certificates, mark sheets from 10th grade onward, original degree transcripts, work experience certificates, and an English language test score (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).

• English Language Requirements: Most universities and visa applications require proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores include:

  • IELTS: Minimum 5.5 (or 6.0+ for higher education courses)

  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 46

  • PTE Academic: Minimum 42

• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Applicants must submit a statement of purpose (SOP) demonstrating their sincere intention to study in Australia and return to their home country afterward.
  

• Financial proof of living expenses: Visa applicants must provide evidence of financial capacity, including:

  • Bank statements

  • Scholarship documents

  • Proof of parental or partner income

• Medical Exam: International students must undergo a health examination and provide a medical certificate to meet Australian Government health requirements.
  

• Overseas Student Health Cover: When studying in Australia, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay is mandatory. Failure to provide proof of OSHC will result in the denial of your visa application.

Please note that these requirements may be subject to change, so it's important to refer to the official websites of the Australian Department of Home Affairs and your chosen education provider for the most up-to-date information.

Australian Student Visa Processing Time

Processing times vary based on the study sector. As of 2025, the approximate processing times are:

Vocational Education and Training Sector

• 75% Processing: 36 days
• 90% Processing: 52 days

Higher Education Sector

• 75% Processing: 17 days
• 90% Processing: 32 days

Please note that these processing times are indicative and can vary, and we advise applying at least 12 weeks before your course starts to allow for processing delays.

Australian Student Visa Application Process

The process of applying for an Australian Study Visa involves three main steps:

1. Determine your eligibility: Ensure compliance with visa conditions, including acceptance letter, financial proof, and documentation.

2. Prepare your application: Gather all required supporting documents before submission.

3. Submit your application: Apply online with scanned supporting documents. Once approved, you will receive a Port of Entry Introduction Letter.

Additional Information

Work Rights for International Students

As of 2024, student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and during official university breaks, students can work unlimited hours. Master’s by research and PhD students have no work-hour restrictions.

Dependent Visa for Family Members

Spouses and children can apply for a Student Guardian Visa (subclass 590) or be added to a subclass 500 visa. Spouses of master's or PhD students may be eligible for work rights.

Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)

Graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) to work in Australia after completing their studies. Validity depends on degree level:

• Bachelor’s: Up to 2 years
• Master’s: Up to 3 years
• PhD: Up to 4 years

Visa Rejection and Appeals

Common rejection reasons include:

• Insufficient funds
• Incomplete documentation
• Failure to meet GS (Genuine Student) criteria

If rejected, students can appeal via the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

Australia Student Visa Enquiry

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch for a free consultation. Our specialist team can assist with all queries regarding Australian Student Visas.